San Diego State University

San Diego State University is located in San Diego, CA, 92182, set within a urban environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #117 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

San Diego State University admits 36% of applicants, reflecting a selective admissions process that seeks students with solid academic preparation and clear motivation. Applications are due by Nov. 30, so students should plan their materials well in advance.

As a large research university with 34,637 undergraduates, San Diego State University offers an extensive selection of courses, majors, and extracurricular activities. Students have access to world-class laboratories, libraries, and collaborative spaces. The student-to-faculty ratio is 24:01:00, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 29% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 56%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at San Diego State University include Business Administration and Management, General (11% of students, median early-career salary: $74,342), Psychology, General (8% of students, median early-career salary: $46,082), and Criminal Justice/Safety Studies (6% of students, median early-career salary: $55,637). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

Room and board adds approximately $23,736. However, the average net price after financial aid is $12,721, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $18,278 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with San Diego State University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. San Diego State University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether San Diego State University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.